Independence Day at the Mill

Main Street Porterdale will celebrate the Fourth with an all-day festival including live music, activities for kids, vendors, food and adult beverages.

Main Street Director Teri Haler said festival-goers can expect some changes to the usual itinerary.

“This is the first year we haven’t had a parade,” Haler said. “And instead we invited a large band from Atlanta.”

In the spirit of doing something unexpected, Haler invited eight-piece band Az Izz, who will headline at 6 p.m. in the Porter Memorial Gymnasium for $10 a seat or $100 for an eight-person table.

Several other musicians and groups will play live music throughout the day for free.

Because Conyers will not be hosting fireworks at the horse park this year, Haler said residents from surrounding counties are welcome to come to Porterdale and experience all the area has to offer.

This includes local food vendors and adult beverages for sale to those 21 and older provided by Jimbo’s Grill at the Mill and Dirty Dogs.

Porterdale is unique in that it allows open containers during certain events, and its Fourth celebration will be no exception.

Additionally, Haler expects more than 20 different vendors will set up at the Main Street area to sell crafts, art and other handmade goods.

Without the parade, Haler wanted to make sure there was still something for everyone to do. That is why the same public service officials will be participating in the community-wide event.

Police Humvees will be at the park, a fire truck will be on display and Sergeant Nina, Porterdale’s K9 officer, will be there to interact with kids. At the ball field at BC Crowell Park, children can enjoy four inflatables, face painting and games.

To cap off the day, the 20-minute fireworks show will begin at 9:30 p.m. Fireworks will be launched from the Yellow River park over the downtown district.